Driving Guide

You must have IRL sticker which is clearly visible to other drivers, or Euro plates with a circle of 12 stars on a blue background.

Use headlight converters to prevent from dazzling other drivers coming in the opposite direction - remember you're driving on the other side of the road!

Keep a kit in your car:

1. Flourescent vest
2. 2 x Single use Breathalyser Kit
3. Warning triangle
4. Can of oil and bottle of water
5. Spare bulbs for all external lights. Make sure you know how to fit them
6. First aid kit
7. In-car phone charger or spare charged phone battery
8. Fire extinguisher (advisory only)

Take both with you...and remember your charger! Also:

1. Have your planned route written down in case you lose signal or your GPS system breaks
2. If you can, try to pre-plan where you'll stop off for a rest/refreshments/sightseeing. This can help cut down on spending money at expensive service stations as well as breaking up your journey
3. When you do stop, make sure all valuables are safely hidden from prying eyes
4. If you use a GPS app on your smart phone, remember this is reliant on an internet connection and that the battery will drain very quickly
5. Make sure the most up-to-date maps are programmed in to your satnav

Make sure your tyres (including your spare) are in decent shape for your journey. Check them for general wear and tear - any splits, nail damage, scuffs or bulges, and while they're still cold, check the pressure. When you drive the tyre will heat up, increasing the pressure. They must be the correct pressure to get the best handling on roads you're not familar with.

Check which type of tyres you need - will the weather have an effect? Note that some countries have a minimum tyre type at certain times of the year.

And will you need snow chains? In the winter they're compulsory in France.

Remember that when driving abroad you'll encounter your fair share of road tolls. Make sure you've got plenty of change handy to prevent having to root around in a panic once you're at the barrier!

Remember also that different countries will have different rules and signs that won't be familiar to you, so learning them before you set off will make it easier.

Whether you've got cash, credit cards, debit cards or pre-paid cards - or all of the above - do not keep them all together. Check any credit or debit cards you take will be accepted where you're going and remember that each time you draw out cash there will be a charge. Let your bank know which cards you're taking overseas so that they don't suspect it's been cloned and stop it.

Make sure you take any paperwork that you may need to use during your holiday - and remember all of the following for all party members where applicable:

1. Your valid driving licence, both photocard and paper types
2. Your valid passport with the correct person entered into the emergency contact section. Also some countries require your passport to be in date for up to 6 months after you've travelled. Check this before you go!
3. Keep a photocopy of your passports, as well as copies of other important documents, separate from the originals
4. Your visa (for visiting non-EU countries)
5. Your insurance certificate(s)
6. Your log book (V5) to provide proof of ownership. You could be fined in some countries for not providing this
7. Get a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for each person for free or reduced-cost health care in the EU
8. Make sure your friends or family know where you're going and that they have a contact number for your destination(s) in case of an emergency (and in case your phone loses signal)

If you book a hire car for your Eurocamp holiday, bear in mind these useful tips:

1. If you want to fly into one airport and home from another, consider and research your locations. For example, flying into France and driving into Switzerland may work out cheaper than flying into Switzerland itself - fuel included
2. Most car hire companies, including Europcar, offer sat nav hire at many of their collection desks. This can be invaluable if you're doing a lot of driving. Or to keep costs down, take your own with you! All Eurocamp parcs are listed on Tom Tom European maps meaning you can find your way with ease
3. If you can locate a supermarket with a petrol station, fill up here rather than on the motorway as it generally works out cheaper. Unless you see a sign telling you otherwise, always fill your tank then pay. Most petrol stations close at night, so if you come across one with a 'pay at pump' facility, make sure your card is accepted before you pick up the pump